Abstract
objectives: Fertility is a key factor in population growth and is influenced by various social, economic, and cultural factors. Health literacy and reproductive health are important determinants of fertility desire. This study aims to examine the relationship between fertility desire, reproductive health, and health literacy among women in Zabol, Iran. Methods: This is a cross-sectional and analytical study that was conducted on 300 women who had just given birth at the LDR unit of Amir Al-Momenin Hospital in Zabol, Iran. The data collection tools included a personal characteristics questionnaire, the Fertility Desire questionnaire, the reproductive health questionnaire and the HLIA health literacy questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using the Pearson correlation test, independent t-test, and One-Way ANOVA. Results: The results of present study showed that the mean age of the women participating in the study was 25.24 ± 5.18 years. Significant negative correlations were found between reproductive health and Fertility Desire (R =-0.126 ,P=0.02) and health literacy (R =-0.216 ,P<0.001). A significant positive correlation was found between health literacy and reproductive health (R =0.51 ,P<0.001). Conclusion: The findings showed that higher health literacy and reproductive health were associated with lower fertility desire among women in Zabol. This trend reflects a shift toward informed and responsible childbearing. Improving health literacy may enhance reproductive decision-making and maternal and child health outcomes.